Rose Woodard

Rose Woodard

by
Oxfam
| May 17, 2010

I am currently studying in the Masters program of Education, Language and Literacy at University of Manitoba in Winnipeg. I also work part-time for an agency whose clients are adults with mental and physical disabilities.

My involvement with Oxfam Canada began with a group I formed in April of 2007, Winnipeg Walk for Darfur, whose mission is to raise awareness and funds in response to the genocide in Darfur, Sudan. In my search for an organiztion that was providing humanitarian aid to the refugees and internally displaced Darfuris, I came across Oxfam Canada’s work there and decided to donate half of the funds we raised towards these efforts.

Following our fundraiser, I led a fundraising workshop at Oxfam’s Regional Assembly and became involved with the Oxfam Group based in Winnipeg. As a volunteer I have been involved in fundraising activities, tabling at community events and presenting at regional events and training. I helped launch the ‘For All’ public services fight poverty campaign in a community event in Winnipeg.

The most rewarding experience as an Oxfam member has been meeting people who are truly motivated towards making this world a more just and equitable place for all human beings. I have personally gained greater knowledge of the world we live in, of political and social systems that are fundamentally tied to each other globally, how to work more effectively on initiatives raising funds and awareness, and how my actions can and do have impact.

I have greatly benefited from the information provided by Oxfam and its partners. Through volunteering, I have gained an increased faith in the possibility of change.